So in Portland they have very strict renters laws favoring the tenants and it can be very expensive to get them out of a residence and what I’m wondering is how to negotiate that to my benefit with this seller.

You are just subject to all the normal rental laws.

@Lee Ripma is correct - as a California resident actively engaging and managing an LLC from California, California will declare nexus and require a registration, a tax filing and a minimum $800 fee each year.Marketing into other states may or may not create nexus (depending on each state's laws, so look them up) and need to register/file in that state, but as @Wayne Brooks indicated, you will most certainly need to be registered in any state where you want to sign contracts and otherwise conduct business in that state.From each state's point of view, anybody who wishes to sue you must be able to do so in the state where the transaction took place so you must be registered in that state with an agent who can accept legal service on your entity, should the need arise. 

Make sure you are following your lease and your local/state laws as well.

(although @Tom Gimer's point about MD law was interesting) But there is no law you have to use that title company or that lender. 

(Tax law requires you to live there for a minimum of 2 of the previous 5 years.)

@Sara Taslitt lead based paint...read up on the laws regarding rentals and lbp in ma.

As far as the mortgage goes, I will have to look further into the laws and rules surrounding the VA Loan.

I know federal law only says structures built  before 1978 and this was built in 1986, however when it comes to safety and your family, I understand you cannot be too careful.Please let me know when to expect this testing so I can arrange for a representative to be onsite.Thank youNOTE: Never send anything like that to someone on a house before 1980ish. 

Definitely check local laws to see what your rights are.